Black Pearl in Praslin Island is one of the most interesting tourist attractions in Seychelles. Those visiting the island for the first time would do well to check the site out.
Location
The farm is at Amitie, Praslin. This is very near the airport.
What to See
This is the only oyster farm at the Indian Ocean. This makes the site unique. At the farm, you will see how the Seychelles Black Lip Oyster pearls are properly cultivated. Helpful guides at the farm will also explain how the Giant Clam species Tridacna maxima feed and breed.
The Black Pearl in Praslin Island has an aquarium and touch pool. The farm also has an online jewelry store where the pearls are sold. The area is divided into three parts: the shop, the pearl farm and the clam farm.
History
Through millions of years of geological processes, the features of the island were formed. The island now has a mountain ridge that goes down to the middle of the landscape. Soft exquisite sand is all around. In spite of the passage of time, the waters around it have remained pure and clear.
The island measures 38 sq km. Situated 44 kilometers to the northeast of Mahe, it currently has a population of approximately 7,000 people. The main settlements are Grand’ Anse, Anse Volbert and Baie Ste Anne.
The explorer Lazare Picault named the place Isle de Palmes in 1744. During this period, the island was employed by Arab merchants and pirates as a hideaway. In 1768, the island was rechristened in honor of Cesar Gabriel de Choiseul duc de Praslin, the French diplomat.
Cost
There is a landing fee of 30 Euros on the island.
Other Info
Not all pearls are black. Some are white, pink, gray or brown. The color depends on the water and the mollusk. Regardless of color, these are very sensitive to humidity, dryness, acids and heat. For this reason, they have to be taken care of very carefully.
On the Mosh scale, pearls are between 2.5 to 4.5, so they are quite soft. Properly taken care of however, they will last a very long time. Besides the pearl farm, there are other tourist destinations in the island. Several resorts and hotels are available.
Black Pearl in Praslin Island is open from 10 am until 4 pm on weekdays. On Saturdays it is open from 10 am up to 12 pm.
